#Japan #M&A Capital Partners #Hakuba #Planet Inc. #Kohno Corporation

Successful M&A between Planet Inc. and Kohno Corporation

On October 1, 2025, a significant M&A ceremony took place at the famous White Resort Hakuba Sanosaka Ski Resort in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. The merger involved Planet Inc., a company known for its snow resort developments, and Kohno Corporation, a 144-year-old firm based in Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture, primarily engaged in the sale of tableware. This strategic partnership was facilitated by M&A Capital Partners, headquartered in Tokyo.

Background of the M&A

The M&A comes at a crucial time for the snow resort industry in Japan, particularly after the tourism boom post the 1998 Nagano Olympics. The Hakuba region, a prime destination for skiing, has faced numerous challenges over the years, including shifts in management among ski resorts and aging facilities that have hindered stable operations. The WR Hakuba Sanosaka Ski Resort had also faced temporary shutdowns, reflecting broader issues in regional tourism.

Planet has previously involved itself in real estate development in both Hakuba and Niseko, establishing a model for selling to international investors while managing the WR Hakuba Sanosaka Ski Resort. Kohno, on the other hand, has fostered a deep-rooted passion for skiing through personal experience and sponsorship initiatives with the ski federation, demonstrating a strong commitment to revitalizing the ski industry. Their shared vision aimed at elevating snow resorts to global standards has formed the cornerstone of this merger.

Advisor Insights

Yuutarou Chida, the Director of Corporate Information Department at M&A Capital Partners, expressed pride in facilitating this merger. He highlighted the importance of Hakuba as a significant tourist destination that contributes to Japan's ambition of becoming a leading tourist nation. He believes that with Kohno’s long-standing presence and Planet’s innovative vision, this merger will revitalize the local economy and enhance Japan's resort industry.

Ceremony Highlights

During the ceremony, representatives from both companies confirmed the transfer documents and signed the agreement in a picturesque setting overlooking Aoki Lake. This moment served as a formal recognition of their collaboration, with both CEOs sharing their visions for the future of WR Hakuba Sanosaka.

Makoto Toosei, President of Planet, stated, ‘Having visited ski resorts worldwide, I believe Japanese ski areas still often limit themselves to skiing alone. While WR Hakuba Sanosaka may be small in scale, its potential, especially with views of Aoki Lake, can compete on the world stage. Through this M&A, we aim to create a true snow resort where both skiers and non-skiers can enjoy and promote the charms of this region internationally.’

Kazuyasu Kohno, President of Kohno, shared, ‘Growing up skiing because of my father’s influence, I've come to recognize the necessity for the ski industry to evolve further. Hakuba and Aoki Lake are places I cherish deeply, and this M&A symbolizes a fateful encounter with a significant opportunity to create a resort that we can be proud of globally, catering to inbound tourists as well as domestic guests and young athletes.’

Company Overview

Transferring Company
Name: Planet Inc.
Official Website: www.planet.villas
WR Hakuba Sanosaka Ski Resort
Facility Website: sanosaka.jp

Receiving Company
Name: Kohno Corporation
Official Website: kohno-onlineshop.com

M&A Advisory
Name: M&A Capital Partners
Official Website: www.ma-cp.com

Conclusion

This merger represents not just a business transaction but a shared commitment to transform the snow resort industry in Japan. With both firms pooling their expertise and passion, the future looks bright for WR Hakuba Sanosaka, and the local community stands to benefit immensely from this collaboration.